The remaining structures here are the ruins of a former 18th-century cotton plantation that had an antebellum-style mansion that was home to Colonel Andrew Deveaux, a Loyalist and veteran of the American Revolutionary War. He was given the land in 1783 for helping to protect and recapture Nassau, The Bahamas' capital, from the Spanish invasion and occupation.

Spanish forces had occupied the town in May 1782, taking the chance to infringe on the former British territory, even though British forces were nearby in Saint Augustine, Florida. Andrew Deveaux led an expedition in April 1783, late in the American War of Independence, to retake The Bahamas from the Spanish on behalf of the British crown. With only a small force and little artillery, Deveaux forced the Spanish to surrender on April 17, 1783, without a single shot being fired. It was one of the final actions of that war, and Deveaux's taking down of the Spanish flag was the last time that a foreign banner was to fly over the Bahamian capital. Deveaux was rewarded handsomely for his efforts, receiving a large portion of Cat Island which lead to his building this estate. He left for England in September 1783, but often returned to the islands.

Visitors can explore this spectacular site free of charge and experience the island's history. You will see how local stone was used in putting together the structures, note that the heavy wooden beams that supported the roofs and framed doors and windows is slowly being shredded by the elements, and marvel that some of the original decorative trim is still there.

Hours Open: Sun Up to Sun Down

Time Period Represented: Late 1700s

Seasons Open: Year Round

Visitor Fees: None

Accessibility Notes

The site is bushy and rocky, so care should be taken by persons with mobility impairments or those in wheelchairs.